Photo: AFP
All California adults who received their original COVID-19 shots six months ago and think they would benefit from a booster should get one.
At a press conference in Los Angeles, Dr. Mark Ghaly said that guidance is in line with the federal government’s eligibility rules for booster shots, which say anyone over 18 who got their vaccines at least six months ago and has an underlying medical condition or works or lives in a high-risk setting may get one, according to the Sacramento Bee. “If you think you will benefit from getting a booster shot, I encourage you to go out and get it. Supply is available,” he said, adding that the administration is working with pharmacies and health care providers to “make sure that no one’s turned away.”
When asked for clarification about the recommendation, the public health department referred to the most current guidance on booster shots, which prioritizes people over 65 or those who work in high-risk settings. There is increasing evidence that the immunity provided by shots received months ago weakens over time. Without a booster, vaccinated people will be at greater risk for breakthrough infections, which can lead to hospitalizations and death among the most vulnerable.